Biotechnology, Stem Cells and Cloning Lecture Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts related to biotechnology, DNA technology, stem cells, and cloning as discussed in the lecture.

What are the main learning goals of the biotechnology lecture?

Understanding how DNA technology solves crimes, describing biotechnology's implications for human health, discussing biotechnology in agriculture, and arguing the benefits and drawbacks of genetically modifying food.

What is DNA fingerprinting used for?

To determine who committed a crime by analyzing unique patterns in an individual's DNA.

Describe the process of DNA fingerprinting.

It involves the formation and separation of DNA segments to identify unique patterns among individuals.

What part of the DNA does DNA fingerprinting utilize?

It utilizes specific regions of DNA that vary greatly among individuals, often used for identification.

What is a transgenic organism?

An organism that has been genetically modified to contain genes from other species.

How are genetically modified organisms produced?

Through genetic engineering processes, where specific genes are inserted into an organism’s DNA to produce desired traits.

What are the benefits of genetically modified food?

Increased crop yields, resistance to pests and diseases, and improved nutritional content.

What are the drawbacks of genetically modified food?

Potential environmental impacts, health concerns, and ethical issues.

Describe the three types of cloning.

DNA cloning, reproductive/whole organism cloning, and therapeutic cloning.

What are stem cells?

Undifferentiated cells with the potential to develop into different cell types; includes embryonic and adult stem cells.

Why do biologists struggle with adult stem cells compared to embryonic stem cells?

Because adult stem cells are more difficult to harvest and have a more limited capacity for differentiation.

What indicates the pattern of bars in a DNA fingerprint?

The presence of various sized fragments from chopped up DNA.

What happens if restriction enzymes are not added during DNA fingerprinting?

The DNA is not cut into segments, leading to only one band being seen for each sample.